"Waterful" Summer Outings Only Minutes from Home

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 10, 2013

CONTACTJim Scanlin, Clean Water Program(510) 670-6548

Clean Water Program's free guide features aquatic beauty in Alameda County

Alameda County, CA - In time for planning summer outings, the Clean Water Program has released "Our Waterful World," a guide to enjoying the beauty of water in Alameda County. The free publication features waterscapes throughout the county, all within easy reach, including beaches, creeks, lakes and wetlands. Suggested activities cover a wide range of interests, from hiking and biking to nature observation, picnicking, boating and fishing.

"Here in the Bay Area, we're lucky to have such an abundance of aquatic beauty right at our doorsteps, and we're excited to share some of our favorite spots," commented Clean Water Program Manager Jim Scanlin. "Ultimately, this is what the Program is working to protect--clean and healthy waterways for everybody to enjoy."

One of the key factors negatively affecting creeks, wetlands and the Bay is polluted water from rain and irrigation entering the storm drain system. Since storm drains lead directly to local waterways without any treatment, it is critical to allow only rain down storm drains. Residents can help prevent pollution with simple, everyday actions:

Always place trash in garbage cans or bring a bag to stash it and take home. Pick up litter to prevent it from getting washed into storm drains.

Consider commercial car washes instead of washing cars on the curb or in the driveway where dirty wash water can enter the storm drains.

Control garden pests with non-toxic alternatives instead of conventional pesticides. Explore these fact sheets for more information.